WSCJTC's Chief for a Day
Chief for a Day (CFAD) is a statewide celebration that brings together law enforcement agencies, community partners, and families to honor children living with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. Children from across Washington are sworn in as honorary chiefs and sheriffs, complete with custom uniforms, a motorcade escort, and hands-on experiences with first responders.
📢SAVE THE DATE: Join us on July 29, 2027, to celebrate our little chiefs and sheriffs.
About Chief for a Day
Chief for a Day Returns to WSCJTC to Celebrate Courage, Community, and Kids
"'This event reminds us all of the power of connection,' said WSCJTC Executive Director Monica Alexander. 'It’s a chance to lift up these incredible kids and to bring our community together in a meaningful way.'"
Celebrating Courage, Community, and Connection
..."families, officers, and community members gathered for the swearing-in ceremony. Children smiled proudly as real chiefs and sheriffs placed badges on their uniforms. Each child’s story reflected resilience, hope, and a reminder that behind every uniform was a heart touched by community."
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chief for a Day?
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Chief for a Day is a heartwarming event hosted by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) that celebrates children living with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. For one special day, these children are sworn in as honorary Chiefs and Sheriffs by law enforcement agencies from across Washington.
- When and where is the event held?
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The 2027 Chief for a Day event will be held on July 29, 2027, at WSCJTC Headquarters in Burien, WA.
- How long has Chief for a Day been happening?
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WSCJTC has hosted Chief for a Day since 1999, growing it into a statewide support, community, and celebration tradition.
- Who is involved in Chief for a Day?
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In 2025, seventeen law enforcement agencies from across the state sponsored children, provided personalized uniforms, badges, and heartfelt moments of recognition. Families, agency partners, and community supporters gathered to celebrate these incredible kids.
- Can the public attend?
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The event is open to participating families, guests, and agency partners. Because of the children's medical needs, public access is limited. Media are welcome with prior coordination.
- Is there a cost to participate or attend?
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There is no cost for participating families. The sponsoring agencies and event partners cover all expenses.
- How are children selected?
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Law enforcement agencies refer children in partnership with families, hospitals, and care organizations.
- What happens after the event?
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Many agencies stay connected with their honorary Chiefs, inviting them to events and building lasting friendships beyond the day’s celebration.
- Can my agency or organization get involved in future events?
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Yes! Agencies or groups interested in participating or supporting future Chief for a Day events may contact the event coordinator at cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov to get involved.
- Are donations accepted to support the event?
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Currently, the event is funded through agency participation and community partnerships; we gladly accept public donations. Donations can be made through the Washington State Combined Fund Drive, linked here.
- Will there be photos or videos available after the event?
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WSCJTC uses photo-release forms to ensure images and videos of participants are approved by subjects before sharing publicly. Approved photos and videos will be shared on our website and social media channels following the event.
- How can the media attend or cover the event?
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Media outlets should contact David Quinlan at david.quinlan@cjtc.wa.gov to coordinate access, request interviews, or obtain event materials.
Contact Us
For Participating Families
- Tisha Tyler, WSCJTC / Event Coordinator. Email: cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov
For Participating Agencies
For agencies or groups interested in participating or supporting future Chief for a Day events:
- Tisha Tyler, WSCJTC / Event Coordinator. Email: cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov
Share the news with our downloadable flyer
For Media and News Inquiries
For media outlets seeking to coordinate access, request interviews, or obtain event materials:
- David Quinlan, Communications Manager. Email: david.quinlan@cjtc.wa.gov
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